Angola is looking to boost its cooperation with the Philippines in the area of investment and tourism development, its ranking official has conveyed during a meeting with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco and Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Secretary of State for External Relations Esmeralda Bravo Conde Da Silva Mendonça discussed the matter during a meeting in Makati City on March 17.

The DOT, in a news release Thursday, said Angola has requested to “collaborate with the Philippines in boosting tourism investments and exchanges”.

Mendonça, it said, conveyed that the southern African state wants to “learn from the Philippines, recognizing the country’s success in leveraging its strengths, from its beaches and natural resources destinations to its culture and heritage, and excellence in hospitality”.

“This visit reaffirms the commitment of both countries to furthering their partnership and unlocking new opportunities in the tourism sector,” said the DOT.

Frasco, for her part, thanked the senior Angolan official for acknowledging the country’s efforts to develop and diversify its tourism portfolio.

She shared that training programs, such as the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence that enhances more visitors’ experience, as well as culture, heritage, gastronomy, and sustainable tourism development, contributed to the higher tourism receipts of the country.

The Philippines and Angola formally established diplomatic relations in 2001, with both nations continuously exploring areas of cooperation in trade, investment, and tourism. (PNA)